Chinese President Xi Jinping on His First Trip to Europe in Five Years: Today in France

Chinese President Xi Jinping has embarked on his first trip to Europe in five years, with a visit that is expected to be dominated by discussions on Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and economic tensions between Beijing and Brussels. 

The first leg of his European tour takes him to France, where significant diplomatic talks are scheduled.

Xi Jinping’s visit to France marks a significant milestone as Beijing and Paris celebrate 60 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations. 

France was the first Western country to formally recognize the People’s Republic of China on January 27, 1964. 

This historic relationship sets the stage for Xi’s discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on May 6 in Paris.

However, the backdrop of this celebratory visit is marked by a deteriorating global security climate. 

The war in Ukraine has entered its third year, and at least 34,683 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s ongoing bombardment of Gaza. 

These conflicts are expected to feature prominently in the discussions between Xi and Macron.

France has made it clear that the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East will be at the forefront of the talks. 

The Elysee Palace stated last week that “exchanges will focus on international crises, first and foremost the war in Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East.” 

France has been one of the most vocal EU members on security issues, with President Macron emerging as a hawkish leader in response to these crises. 

Macron will likely urge Xi to leverage China’s influence over Russian President Vladimir Putin to seek a resolution in Ukraine. 

In an interview with the Economist newspaper, Macron emphasized that the war in Ukraine is existential for Europe. 

This perspective will undoubtedly shape his discussions with Xi, as he seeks to convince the Chinese leader to take a more active role in pressuring Moscow. 

Beijing has professed neutrality in the conflict but has not condemned Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. 

Macron’s goal will be to sway Xi towards a position that could help bring about peace in the region.

Xi’s trip also includes visits to Serbia and Hungary, two countries that have maintained close ties with Russia despite its invasion of Ukraine. 

According to Matt Geracim, assistant director of the Atlantic Council’s Global China Hub, Xi’s European tour has three primary goals: repairing relations in Europe damaged by China’s support for Russia, countering the EU’s economic security agenda concerning China, and showcasing Beijing’s strong ties with its stalwart partners Serbia and Hungary.

Beijing’s relationship with Brussels has been strained due to econmic issues and China’s stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine. 

Xi’s visit is an opportunity to address these tensions and attempt to repair the damaged relations. 

The economic security agenda of the EU, which includes concerns over China’s trade practices and technological advancements, will be another critical topic during Xi’s discussions with European leaders.

The significance of Xi’s European tour cannot be overstated. It comes at a time when global security and economic landscapes are fraught with challenges. 

As the Chinese president meets with European leaders, the outcomes of these discussions could have far-reaching implications for international relations and the future of global cooperation.

Xi’s first stop in France sets a crucial tone for the rest of his European tour. 

The success of his discussions with Macron and von der Leyen will likely influence the subsequent meetings in Serbia and Hungary. 

As the world watches closely, Xi’s visit to Europe represents a pivotal moment in China’s diplomatic efforts to navigate the complex web of global politics and economics.